An efficient route for the synthesis of benzimidazoles via a hydrogen-transfer strategy between o -nitroanilines and alcohols

Abstract [1,1′-Bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene]dichloropalladium(II) has been used as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of 2-substituted benzimidazoles via a hydrogen-transfer strategy. Various 2-substituted benzimidazoles were synthesized in good to excellent yields (up to 97%). The reaction shows good functional group tolerance. And no additional additive, oxidant, or reductant was required for the reaction.